DOC payments made to counties for housing state offenders in county facilities; require rate paid to be the same at each facility.
The immediate effect of this bill would be the establishment of a standardized rate for housing state offenders, which the Department of Corrections must negotiate uniformly across all county jails. The proposed daily rate for housing each offender is capped at Twenty-five Dollars ($25.00), ensuring that all counties receive equal compensation for the care of inmates. This amendment is significant as it seeks to alleviate existing inconsistencies that could lead to budgetary challenges among the counties housing state offenders.
House Bill 1373 aims to amend several sections of the Mississippi Code of 1972, specifically regarding the Department of Corrections' contracts for housing state offenders in county and regional correctional facilities. The bill mandates that all such contracts must establish a uniform fee or rate for the care and housing of state offenders at every facility. This legislative change is intended to streamline costs and prevent disparities in the rates being paid to different correctional facilities across the state.
Supporters of HB 1373 argue that standardizing the rates paid to counties will simplify the budgeting process for local governments and foster better collaboration between state authorities and county officials. Opponents, however, may raise concerns regarding the adequacy of the set fee, arguing that it may not fully cover the rising costs of inmate care, particularly in terms of medical and nutritional needs. Additionally, the bill raises questions about accountability and support for counties that may struggle to meet the operational demands of their facilities under the new standardized rate.
The bill not only addresses the financial aspects of inmate housing but also reinforces the Department's minimal liability in situations involving inmates held in county jails. This could shield the Department from various claims related to the conditions or treatment of inmates housed outside the state facilities.